Dickens Festival Deventer 34nd edition
December 12 & 13, 2026
On Saturday, December 12th and Sunday, December 13th, 2026, the iconic Dickens Festival will return to Deventer! The 19th-century English city will be brought back to life in all its glory: over 950 characters from Charles Dickens' books will come to life in the Bergkwartier district. The festival attracts thousands of visitors from the Netherlands and abroad. Admission to the Dickens Festival is €6, payable at the ticket office at the beginning of the queue. Children aged 7 and under are free.
About the Dickens Festival
Charles Dickens's 19th-century English town is reborn in all its glory in the center of Deventer. In the historic Bergkwartier district, over 950 characters from the English author's famous books come to life every year: from Scrooge to Oliver Twist, from Mr. Pickwick to the Christmas Carol Singers, from orphans to office clerks and posh folk. Deventer Christmas Town welcomes over 125.000 visitors annually, more than half of whom attend the Dickens Festival. Please be aware that there may be a waiting list at the entrance.
It was in 1991 that Emmy Strik wanted to brighten up her boring shopping Sunday in the cozy month of December. In bed that evening she suddenly thought: it had to be a Dickens in Christmas. That would cheer everyone up. The municipality of Deventer did not like that, so she decided to set it up together with her husband Jan Strik in their own Walstraat. Of course, there is not one like the first edition and a lot has changed in the past 30 years. In conversation with Emmy Strik - Ten Kley about what 'her' Dickens Festijn would have been like in 2021.
(This interview took place before it was decided to cancel the Dickens Festival in 2021)
FAQ
How much does a ticket for the Dickens Festival cost?
Admission to the Dickens Festival is €6 per person. Tickets can be purchased at the ticket office at the beginning of the queue (debit card and cash). Children aged 7 and under are free. However, please be aware that waiting times can be up to 2 hours.
Do you also work with time slots or advance sales?
No, visitors can only buy a ticket at the box office during the festival.
What is the best time to visit the Dickens Festival?
The Dickens Festival is on Saturday and Sunday from 11.00:17.00 to 11.00:13.00. The queue is longest between XNUMX:XNUMX and XNUMX:XNUMX.
Can I participate in the Dickens Festival in costume?
Are dogs allowed at the Dickens Festival?
We strongly advise against visiting the festival with dogs. Firstly, you have to take into account the queue and in addition, there are other animals, moving objects and (unexpected) sounds in the event area.
Guide and assistance dogs are allowed and you do not have to wait in line. You can report to the entrance gate as described under 'Entrance and queue'.
More information about parking and public transport?
A shuttle service has been set up especially for the Dickens Festival. On 13 and 14 December, coming from the A1, follow the signs to an extra, guarded parking lot, including bus transportation to the center. Tickets (1 per car, €20,- on site) and more information via accessibility information.
In the city center you can park in the Center garage (On Keizer 1, behind HEMA, open 24 hours a day). For more parking spaces around the center: follow the parking route. It is recommended to come to Deventer by public transport. From the Deventer NS and bus station it is a 3-minute walk to the center.
Where should coaches report?
On this website you will find here is the web page for registering coaches and tour operatorsAfter registering, you will receive all necessary information such as a parking card, route and map 2 weeks before the event.
Where are the charging points for assistive devices?
Do you use an electric wheelchair or other assistive device? You can charge it in the Bergkerk (located in the center of the grounds) if needed. Our staff on site will be happy to assist you.
When will the Dickens Festival take place in 2025?
In 2025 the festival will take place on December 13 and 14.
How can the press register for accreditation?
Media representatives can apply for accreditation online prior to the event. Accreditation includes access to the event grounds, first-time recipients of our press releases, and connection with staff, actors, or participants for interviews. Terms and conditions and registration are available. through this link.
Photos: Sander Korvemaker
The Dickens Festival/Deventer Christmas City
is possible thanks to:
• All residents and entrepreneurs of the Deventer Bergkwartier • All artists, participants, theatre companies and choirs
Tip!
Dickens cabinet
The Dickens festival is not until December, but did you know that the Dickens Cabinet every saturday? is open?
Visit the Charles Dickens Cabinet in the Walstraat and get to know the life and work of Charles Dickens in a permanent exhibition based on the collection of Emmy Strik. You can also book a special tour throughout the year!
